Air Tractor Trims Production As Farm Economy Weakens

Air Tractor has reduced its aircraft production plans for 2026 due to the downturn in the agricultural economy. The weak farm economy has led operators to cancel more than 30 aircraft orders, company President Jim Hirsch told the Olney City Council on June 8. Mr. Hirsch said the manufacturer has lost between 33 and 34 orders since January as agricultural producers continue to struggle financially. “As most people have heard around here, farmers are really struggling these days,” Mr. Hirsch said. The cancellations prompted Air Tractor to lower its production forecast from roughly 190 aircraft to about 155 to 157 airplanes this year. Despite the reduction, Mr. Hirsch said the company remains in a stable position. “We’re okay at that level, but we will have to make sure we keep our eyes on our Ps and Qs,” he said. The agricultural aviation market remains Air Tractor’s largest and most recognizable business segment, but Mr. Hirsch said strength in other areas has helped offset some of the slowdown. “Fortunately, the fire market is strong and the military stuff is steady now,” he told council members. Air Tractor manufactures aircraft used for aerial applications on crops, wildfire suppression and military support missions. The company has expanded its facilities at Olney Municipal Airport in recent years, including additions to production, fabrication and research- and-development operations. While the agricultural market is currently under pressure, Mr. Hirsch expressed confidence that conditions will improve. “Long term, the ag market will be good. It will come back,” he said. “We’ve been through dips several times before.”